Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ's

Q: What are symptoms of a heart attack?
A: The National Heart Attack Alert Program notes these major symptoms of a heart attack:

Tightness and discomfort in the chest area. Most heart attacks cause pain in the center of the chest, lasting for more than a few minutes. Discomfort may subside for a minutes and then return. The sensation is an uncomfortable pressure, a feeling of swelling, fullness, or a painful squeezing.

Pain or discomfort in other areas of the body, including one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

Shortness of breath. This symptom may occur before any feeling of discomfort arises in the chest, but most often accompanies it.

Sweating and nausea. Breaking out in a cold sweat, or experiencing nausea and light-headedness is also common in the advent of a heart attack.

Q: What are the risk factors of heart disease?
A: Some pre-existing personal conditions as well as certain lifestyle choices can contribute to your level of risk for heart disease. High blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, cigarette smoking, diabetes and obesity can all increase a person's risk of heart disease.

Q: I was referred by my primary doctor. What is the process for referrals?
A: Patients are referred to a cardiologist by their doctor. Information is sent to help with the entry process. To streamline the new patient process, please complete the registration forms found on the patient information page.

Q: I'm scheduled for a procedure. Should I do anything to prepare?
A: Depending on the treatment, your doctor may inform you special instructions to prepare for the procedure. If you are unsure, contact our office for more information regarding your scheduled procedure. You can find instructions for nuclear stress testing under Patient Forms tab.

Q: Will someone notify me about my laboratory or test results?
A: For laboratory and test results, you will be notified of critically abnormal findings immediately after they are reviewed by a doctor. For non-critical results you will be notified within five business days or you may be asked to schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss.

Q: Can I get my test results over the phone?
A: Many results can be given over the phone but you may be asked to schedule a follow-up appointment for some results upon the discretion of the doctor.

Q: How long will it take to have my refills called in on my medications?
A: Regular maintenance medications take 24 to 48 hours to be called in. Prescription refills received after 4:00pm will be called in the next business day.

Q: How much time does a new patient visit take?
A: A new patient visit on average will take 2 hours. It may be longer if the doctor orders any testing to be done on the same day as your visit.